Tourism contributes 18% in New Zealand’s GDP

According to a research by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), in 2017, travel and tourism contributed 18% into New Zealand’s GDP and the sector is considered at as a great economic driver.

The report also suggests that the figure will go up by 3% to account for as much as 20% of New Zealand’s GDP over the next decade.

In 2017, the travel sector grew 3.2%. The tourism sector accounts for 212,000 jobs in the country, 9% of total employment. By 2028, WTTC predicts that the sector will employ more than 270,000, roughly 11% of the total workforce.

Gloria Guevara, President and CEO, WTTC said, “Travel & tourism creates jobs, drives economic growth and helps build better societies. New Zealand is a prime example of this, as the country and its natural beauty is expected to attract over 2.7 million international tourist arrivals in 2018 alone. This represents a 3.9% economic increase from 2017 where visitor exports were responsible for generating USD 10 billion.”

Tourism has risen up the agenda in New Zealand over recent years and I commend the government on its support for the sector. Going forward it will be vital for public and private sectors to continue to work together, with the close involvement of communities, to ensure that tourism growth is sustainable, inclusive and benefits everyone,” Guevara added.